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The sophomore effort for the "new grass" festival, which last year was dubbed the Old Farmers Ball, has many of the same acts on its three stages, but without the threatening weather that marred last year's event. The program builds around the network of fellow travelers in Cabinet, a band with local ties.

As night fell, organizer Sean "Bonesaw" Haggerty said pre-ticket sales were fairly strong, helped by this year's addition of camping as an option for attendees. The event cultivated a family atmosphere, adding more youth activities and admitting children under 10 free.

"These bands represent a family of musicians," Haggerty said. "We want the event to have that feel from the top down."

Vendor Ronnie Rez of Philadelphia, selling tie-dye banners, crafts and hula-hoops, said the event succeeded in being safe and friendly, a priority since he visits festivals with his 7-month-old daughter Willow Oliva in tow.

"Everyone here is laid back and the security is good," he said.

Some attendees, such as Morgan Samson of Williamsport, sequestered in the concert area, grumbled about the cost of food and drinks and what they perceived as overzealous security. But she gushed about the sounds and the scene.

"The music is absolutely wonderful," she said. "I hope to come back every year."

The banjo and mandolin players in Floodwood struck up a plucky cover of Lou Reed's "Sweet Jane" as small children crammed into a vendor's tent forming a youthful, impromptu drum circle.

The event will return next year, Haggerty said, noting that festivals build followings and audiences over several years.

dfalchek@timesshamrock.com

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